Hotels in Markovci: Fašenk, Lake Ptuj and Šturmovci

Markovci combines a strong carnival tradition with protected landscapes, Lake Ptuj and various forms of active exploration. Culture enthusiasts encounter Fašenk and the figure of the Korant here, while trails through the region, birdwatching, cycling routes, rafting tours and regional cuisine reveal further facets of the area.

Culture

The procession of ethnographic figures in Markovci is called “Fašenk”. During Fašenk, the Korant appears together with local figures such as ploughmen, fairies, Rusa, bears, chickens, Pokači and the wedding figure of the lance bearer. The individual house-to-house processions of the Kurents probably began in the second half of the 19th century in Markovci and the neighboring villages.

The Kurent or Korant processions have been recognized by UNESCO as part of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity. The earliest written mention of the Korant dates to 1829 and is associated with the old books of St. Mark’s Church in Markovci. St. Mark’s Church is the central religious building of the Municipality of Markovci and an important part of its local cultural heritage.

Markovci celebrates its municipal holiday every year on April 25, the feast day of Saint Mark. The municipal holiday includes events organized by local sports, cultural and volunteer fire brigades, as well as a church blessing, and extends throughout the entire month. The “Fašenk v Markovcih” project announced for 2026 to 2028 includes a traditional carnival procession, the “Bičov pok” event, performances by carnival figures and groups, a carnival hall or carnival tent, as well as culinary and musical entertainment.

Even outside the traditional carnival season, the central figure remains present: the Ethno Museum on the top floor of the Markovci municipal office presents the Korant interactively.

Nature

Two-thirds of Lake Ptuj’s surface area lies within the Municipality of Markovci. More than 230 bird species breed in the protected lakeshore landscape of Lake Ptuj, including rare and protected species such as the great cormorant, common tern and black tern.

The nearby Šturmovci Landscape Park includes floodplain forests, wetlands and diverse biological features. The park is suitable for walking, cycling and birdwatching.

Things to do

The “Along the Path of the Korant” themed trail leads through the Markovci region and introduces visitors to local traditions. A carriage ride through the protected Šturmovci Landscape Park is part of the Markovci experience; the themed Markovci experience ends with a tasting of local cuisine.

Red signposts for the Drava Bike Route guide cyclists from Ptuj to Markovci and Mihovci pri Veliki Nedelji. Nearby Lake Ptuj has a 13-kilometer circular route suitable for cycling and walking. The tourist offerings of the Municipality of Markovci also include organized rafting tours on the Drava and E-bike rentals.

On site

Camper Stop Zabovci has eight pitches for motorhomes. There are also two charging stations, each with four connection points, as well as a separate station for water supply and sewage disposal.

More destinations

More destinations: Moškanjci, Jiršovci, Ptuj, Gorišnica, Majšperk, Cirkulane

Back to the main travel overview: Ptuj.